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Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.) is a large, shrublike vine that grows exceptionally well in warm coastal climates. In ideal conditions and with proper care, bougainvilleas can bloom as many as 11 months out of the year and, as perennials, can return year after year as long as they are not exposed to harsh winter temperatures. Bougainvillea flowers are typically pink, purple and red, though varieties are available in colors ranging from white to bright orange.

1

Plant bougainvillea in a location with lots of sunlight. Full sun exposure is essential for bougainvillea plants, and they will not bloom in shade. Bougainvillea also prefers a rich, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.0. If necessary, you can increase pH before planting by adding ground agricultural limestone to the soil. You can lower pH by incorporating elemental sulfur.

2

Water bougainvillea enough to keep the soil moist but not soaking wet. Finding a happy medium in watering is essential. Dry soil stresses the plants and can reduce blooming, but wet, waterlogged soil can cause root rot and make the plants susceptible to pest problems.

3

Fertilize bougainvillea at the time of planting and again as needed throughout the plant's life. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer containing nitrogen and iron keeps plants healthy and encourages blooming. Avoid overdoing it with nitrogen fertilizers, however; too much nitrogen can lead to large, bushy plants that produce few flowers. Potted bougainvillea plants can be fertilized again as needed, according to the directions on the fertilizer packaging.

4

Prune bougainvillea after it stops blooming. Bougainvillea blooms on new growth, so once its blooming cycle ends, you can use a set of garden pruners to trim off one half of the growth that ends with the flower. For example, if the plants have 4 inches of new growth at the end of a blooming cycle, you can cut off the flowers along with 2 inches of stem. This will encourage the next blooming cycle to begin more quickly.

Things You Will Need

Fertilizer

Garden pruners

Growing Container

Potting Soil

Tip

If you live in an area that usually experiences winter temperatures below freezing, plant bougainvillea in containers that can be moved indoors. After it becomes established, bougainvillea should be hardy enough to survive brief cold periods, but it should not be exposed to these conditions during its first two years.

About the Author

Richard Corrigan has been a full-time professional writer since 2010. His areas of expertise include travel, sports and recreation, gardening, landscaping and the outdoors. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from SUNY Geneseo in 2009.